Metabolic polarity of the astrocytic syncytium. Astrocytes have various
processes that make contact either with capillaries, neuronal perikarya,
or synapses. In addition, they are connected with each other at gap junctions;
through these junctions small molecules (MW < 1000) can be exchanged.
These properties endow the astrocytic syncytium with the capacity to ensure
the transfer of metabolic intermediates from areas of production to areas
of demand. Glu, Glutamate; Gln, glutamine.